Bunny chow (often just called “bunny”) at La Mercy Beach Hotel is a well-known local draw in the Durban/North Coast area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Guests and reviewers consistently single out the hotel’s authentic Durban-style curries and bunny chows as a highlight, sometimes rating them among the better options in the region.
What is bunny chow here?
Bunny chow is a classic Durban Indian dish: a hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with curry (typically mutton/lamb, chicken, beans, or seafood), with the soft inner bread used to mop up the gravy. At this hotel, standout mentions include:
- Mutton/lamb bunny — Frequently praised for flavour, tender meat and potato, sufficient gravy, and a good level of spice/heat (one 2025 review noted a lamb bunny at R99 as flavourful with the “right after-burn”).
- Prawn curry, chicken varieties, and samosas also receive strong compliments for authentic spices and taste.
- The kitchen can prepare dishes very spicy on request.
- Occasional mixed notes appear (e.g., beans bunny sometimes disappointing, or mutton occasionally stringy), and service waits can be longer at busy times. Breakfast is generally viewed as solid value, though options may be limited for some guests.
The restaurant is on-site (with a bar), and the food is a major reason many people stop by even if not staying overnight. The hotel’s Indian/curry offerings are repeatedly described as a key attraction alongside the beachfront setting.
Hotel overview and practical details
La Mercy Beach Hotel is a 3-star beachfront property at 230 South Beach Road, La Mercy, 4405 (Tongaat Beach area). It sits right by the Indian Ocean with sea views, an outdoor pool, and easy beach access. It is conveniently close to King Shaka International Airport (roughly 4–12 km / a short drive, depending on the exact route and traffic).
Typical ratings: Around 6.4–6.9/10 across major sites (based on hundreds of reviews). Strengths include the location, ocean views, friendly staff, peaceful vibe, and the food. Common critiques focus on dated or basic rooms/décor, occasional maintenance issues (e.g., bathrooms), and variable consistency. Family rooms (including larger options) are available. Amenities usually include free parking, Wi-Fi, a restaurant/bar, room service, and conference facilities. Pets are generally not allowed.
Contact information (cross-checked from multiple sources; verify current details):
- Phone: +27 32 941 6221 (also listed as +27 64 535 3886 in some places)
- Email: info@lamercybeachhotel.co.za
- Website references: lamercybeachhotel.co.za
